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I'm a senior applying to several of the top schools. I've received almost all A's throughout the last three years. I've emphasized my strengths in the humanities in my applications. Although I am geared toward English/History etc., I undertook AP calculus this year as "a challenge." I receieved a B+ the first quarter (the only grade lower than A). This quarter however, has been a wreck. I'm hoping to be able to pull up my grade so my semester average is a B, but it could possibly be a C+. However, all my other course grades (including two other demanding APs-the most one is allowed to take in my school)will remain A's. My question is, will an isolated mediocre grade in an AP class (in a candidates "Achilles Heel") seriously dim his prospects for admittance to Ivies (including the Big Three). Thanks

By Dadster on Monday, December 31, 2001 - 11:11 am: Edit

If you aren't applying as an engineering or math major, I wouldn't expect a single so-so grade to be a killer. Your GPA and class rank will be largely unaffected, and your SATs won't change, so you should still stack up pretty much the same with or without the one class. Much more will depend on your accomplishments outside the classroom, IMO. Many of the applicants to HYP and the other Ivies have great GPAs and scores, but it's evidence of excellence in other activities that often determines who gets a fat envelope. Personally, I think the fact that you took the course despite the potential hazard to your perfect GPA demonstrates that you aren't afraid of a challenge. Good luck, may all your envelopes contain letters that start with "Congratulations!"